Customs department marks 73rd International Customs Day

KATHMANDU: The Department of Customs organised a programme in Kathmandu today to mark the 73rd International Customs Day.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, noted that while government revenue collection has improved compared to last year, the current fiscal year's target remains unmet. Emphasising the need for diligence, He said, "We are currently under pressure to achieve the set revenue targets. Despite some improvement compared to last year, it is not satisfactory compared to the target set for this year."

The Finance Minister highlighted new laws introduced to improve public service delivery, boost private sector morale, and create an investment-friendly environment. "This step taken by the government to address economic issues, enhance production and productivity, and foster economic growth is not the last. We will continue to take such steps," he said, stressing the importance of coordination between the Customs office and security agencies.

Likewise, Ministry of Finance (MoF) Secretary (Revenue) Dinesh Kumar Ghimire underscored the government's commitment to increasing the use of technology in customs administration. He informed that the MoF is considering blockchain technology and working on unifying the customs system.

On the occasion, Department of Customs Director General Harisharan Pudasaini mentioned the department's efforts to meet the annual revenue target. "We are aware of the need to make the customs administration efficient, facilitate trade, reduce costs, and provide international-level services using advanced technology," he said.

Addressing the programme, Federal Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President Chandra Prasad Dhakal stressed the need for the customs administration to be private sector-friendly and service-consumer-friendly. "Since revenue increases when the economy is in motion, the government should promote clean and competitive businesses," he said, adding that illegal imports due to high customs rates are affecting revenue.

Similarly, Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) President Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal highlighted the need for policy and practical reforms in customs administration, suggesting the removal of the reference price book and basing inspections on transaction prices. He emphasised adopting the Harmonised System (HS) Code and building well-equipped 'quarantine labs' in all customs offices.

Nepal Foreign Trade Association (NAFTA) President Shiv Kumar Agrawal stressed the need for collaboration between the government and the private sector for trade facilitation. He called for addressing the concerns of private sector in the Customs Bill and representing NAFTA in the Revenue Consultation Committee.

The programme also saw the implementation of a declaration form with a QR code and the EXIM Code system by the Department of Customs, alongside the public release of a collection of customs souvenirs and circulars.

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is dedicating 2025 to customs delivering on its commitment to efficiency, security and prosperity.

READ ALSO:

• Birgunj Customs Office witnesses Rs 29.27bn in merchandise exports over 6 months
• Industrialists urge government to streamline customs procedures
• NCC honours customs officer Bhattarai on International Customs Day
• Private sector calls for prompt customs administration and procedural reforms